October 11, 2011

By: Dan Hopkins

Two Men And A Truck’s Advice for dog owners, when preparing for an upcoming move

Moving can be one of the most stressful events in life, so why should that be any different for your dog?

Here are 10 tips on how to prepare your dog:

10). Under no circumstances should you place your dog in the back of a moving truck. Even safely tucked in a well-ventilated pet travel carrier, the truck is almost always hot (even in winter) and of course, the doors are closed.

9). Your dog will most likely want to play with the movers and probably everyone else, so take him / her to a kennel, dog spa or have a friend or relative dog sit at their home, before the movers arrive. Those will be the best places for your furry friend; then you can devote your total attention to your moving activities.

8). If your dog must be with you during your move, keep your loved one outside or out of the movers’ way. Dogs crave the attention of strangers and can create obstacles which will impede the move.

7). Have dog treats on hand for move day to keep him / her quiet. It's also good way to get your dog to listen and obey. And, it's a great idea to have water and nutritious human treats for your movers as well.

6). Pack a separate box of your dog's favourite toys. Once at your new home, your dog may be frightened of the new surroundings, so, having familiar playthings ready will reduce stress levels.

5). Don't forget that your dog will be excited on move day and will need plenty of water. Exercise is the best way to get your dog ready, more relaxed and calm for when the movers arrive. Depending on your dog’s age and size, draining his / her energy level may not be easy, so plan frequent walks. I know that a 30-minute walk barely makes a dent in our dog’s energy level.

4). Make sure you let your pet out for "mess" breaks. Nothing will ruin your moving day experience more than a ‘surprise’ from your dog inside your new abode. Keep him / her on your property to avoid making a bad first impression on your neighbours.

3). If your dog will be around during the move, let your movers know ahead of time. You’d be surprised how many men are afraid of dogs. Whether large or small animals, it doesn't matter. Also, there are movers that are allergic to dogs.

2). After the move you will be busy unpacking, so don't ignore your dog. Take regular and long walks, if you can, to explore your new neighbourhood together or even short breaks from unpacking, to play. Time together will help your dog be better behaved during this change in everyone’s environment.

1). Have fun – moving into new digs is a time to celebrate. Have the movers take a picture…you, your family and your dog in your new home. What a perfect reminder of the day you just shared.
 

Other Articles by Dan Hopkins:

Expected the Unexpected When Moving

The Word-of-Mouth Factor

Moving is Much More Than Picking Up Boxes

The Grandma Rules, Rules!

To Pack, or Not To Pack...

Do your Research and Choose Your Mover Wisely

 

ABOUT TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® – CANADA

In 2005, TMT International awarded its first master franchise in Canada to TMT Franchising Corp - a division of the Heron Capital Corporation. The Canadian TMT Master Franchise company currently has a customer referral rate of 94 per cent with fourteen Ontario locations servicing London, Hamilton, Halton, Mississauga North, Mississauga South, Brampton, Etobicoke, Toronto Mid-Town, Toronto East, Oshawa, Barrie, Newmarket / Aurora, Kingston and Ottawa. Visit www.twomen.ca.

Dan Hopkins is Chief Operating Officer and Vice President, Development & Operations, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® - CANADA

ABOUT TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for over 25 years and currently operates in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Ireland with 200 locations operating 1,400 moving trucks and completed 358,000 moves last year. www.twomen.com.